So, you’re still rocking macOS Mojave. Honestly, I don’t blame you. Whether it’s because you have a 2012 MacBook Pro that refuses to die or you just can’t let go of the last Mac OS that supports 32-bit apps, Mojave is a legend. But here’s the kicker: trying to get modern software like CapCut to run on it is... well, it’s a bit of a headache.
If you’ve tried to hit "Get" on the App Store recently, you probably saw that annoying "Incompatible" message. It’s frustrating. You want those TikTok-style transitions and auto-captions, but your system is technically "too old."
But don't give up on your hardware yet. There are ways to get CapCut for macOS Mojave running without having to buy a brand-new M3 Mac.
The Compatibility Wall: Why It Happens
CapCut officially lists its minimum requirement as macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later. Since Mojave is 10.14, you’re essentially one step behind the velvet rope. Most people think this is a hardware limitation, but it’s usually just a software flag. Apple and developers love to push you toward the newest OS, even if your Intel i7 and 16GB of RAM could handle the video rendering just fine.
The good news? CapCut actually did support Mojave back in its earlier desktop releases. The bad news is that the current version on the Mac App Store will flat-out refuse to install.
The Best Workaround: CapCut Web
I know, I know. You want the desktop app. But hear me out. The CapCut Web Editor has become insanely powerful in 2026.
It runs inside Chrome or Safari, meaning it doesn't care if you're on Mojave, High Sierra, or even a potato. Most of the AI tools—like the background remover and the "Veo" powered video generators—actually run on CapCut’s servers, not your local Mac. This is a huge win for Mojave users because it saves your CPU from screaming for mercy.
- Head to the official CapCut website.
- Log in with your TikTok or Google account.
- Upload your clips to the "Cloud Space."
- Edit with almost the exact same timeline interface as the desktop version.
It’s surprisingly fluid. You get the 4K exports and the trending music library without needing a system update.
Finding the "Golden" Legacy Version
If you’re a purist and absolutely must have an app icon in your Dock, you’re looking for a legacy version. Specifically, version 1.5.0 or 1.6.1. These were some of the last builds that didn't strictly enforce the Catalina requirement.
You won't find these on the App Store. You’ll have to look at reputable third-party repositories like Uptodown.
Wait! Before you go downloading random DMG files, be careful. Only use trusted sites. Once you find an older version, you might have to bypass the "Gatekeeper" security on Mojave. You do this by right-clicking the app and selecting "Open" instead of just double-clicking.
👉 See also: Sunita Williams Landed on Earth: What Really Happened During That 286-Day Odyssey
Why Your Mac Might Struggle (And Fixes)
Let’s be real: video editing is heavy. Even if you get the app installed, Mojave-era Macs often deal with lag.
If your preview window looks like a slideshow, change your preview quality to "Performance Mode." Also, turn off "High-Quality Preview" in the settings menu. Another trick? Proxies. CapCut has a built-in proxy toggle that creates smaller, lighter versions of your 4K clips while you edit, then switches back to the full resolution for the final export. It’s a lifesaver for older hardware.
Solid Alternatives for Mojave Users
If the legacy versions are crashing and the web version isn't cutting it, you have other options that were actually built for your OS.
- iMovie: It’s already on your Mac. It’s basic, but for simple cuts, it’s rock solid on Mojave.
- DaVinci Resolve 16: This was the last version of Resolve that really liked Mojave. It’s professional-grade and free, though much steeper to learn than CapCut.
- Shotcut: An open-source editor that still supports older macOS versions and offers a lot of the "drag and drop" simplicity you’re looking for.
Making the Call
Is it worth the hassle? If you’re just doing quick edits for social media, stick to the CapCut Web Editor. It’s the most stable way to get the newest features on an older system. If you’re doing heavy, long-form editing, it might finally be time to look into a "patcher" to upgrade your Mac to a newer OS—or just embrace the legacy life with a dedicated offline version.
Start by checking your specific Mac model. If you have at least 8GB of RAM, try the legacy version 1.6.1 first. If you're on 4GB, stay in the browser. It'll save you from the spinning beach ball of death.
👉 See also: What is Meant by Force: Why Your High School Physics Teacher Was Right
Next Steps for You:
Check your "About This Mac" to confirm your RAM and Processor. If you're on a MacBook Air with 4GB, don't bother with the desktop app; go straight to the CapCut Web Editor to avoid system crashes. If you have a Pro or iMac with 16GB, search for the CapCut 1.6.1 DMG on Uptodown to get that native desktop experience.